Jaden’s Ladder helps survivor become a nurse

RYE — October is domestic violence awareness month and Jaden’s Ladder members have once again helped a survivor create a new, self-sufficient life for herself.

Getting a victim to a safe place is important, but equally important is helping her find a way to stay safe and to build a life after the threat of violence is removed.

Started in Rye, Jaden’s Ladder now has chapters in Boston, Mass., and in Atlanta, Ga. Founded in October, 2004, Jaden's Ladder is a non-profit organization that assists survivors of domestic violence with life-enhancing, post shelter programs and support that build confidence and fosters self-reliance.

Last year, Jaden’s Ladder started the Treasure Genaw Memorial Fund. It was named after Treasure Genaw, who was murdered by her 19 year-old boyfriend when she was 17 and pregnant. The fund is intended for survivors who decide to seek health care careers as a way to become self-supporting.

This year, Jaden’s Ladder awarded a more than $11,000 to help Sheryl, one of the organization’s survivors, to complete her nursing training. She graduates from Intercoast Career Institute in Kittery this week.

On Monday, Oct. 22, a celebration was held at Demeter’s Steak House in Portsmouth to announce the scholarship award to Sheryl. The scholarship money comes completely from donations, including $1,000 from a Harvard Pilgrim Community Spirit grant.

“The night was awesome,” said Jaden’s Ladder founder Oneta Bobbett. “Her kids were there and they all were a bit nervous about graduating from our program. We picked Sheryl because she had worked so hard to get her degree.

"Also, it’s hard to be in this program and she worked harder to find her voice and to be a stronger parent. We are really proud. She is an inspiration to me and all the current women in our program.”

Sheryl, whose last name and location are withheld for her protection, said she first learned about Jaden’s Ladder through a therapist working with her daughter to overcome the trauma of domestic violence in her family.

“I had left my marriage and moved to New Hampshire,” said Sheryl. “I am so grateful for what has happened here. It seems like a miracle.”

When she moved to the state, Sheryl was struggling to figure out how she could support her family, how she was going to survive.

“My kids had suffered a lot of trauma,” she said. “People don’t understand the kid piece, how much this affects them. I left my marriage because I could not raise them in that toxic environment, but I had very few options on where to go from there.

" I left as a shell of a person and now, with Jaden’s Ladder, I have gotten back my self-esteem.”

With the support system of Jaden’s Ladder, Sheryl said she will rebuild her life for her and for her children. “They give me a safety net because they support me and believe in me,” said Sheryl. “It really is empowering.”